By Christopher Philomina
The People’s Democratic partly ( PDP) has accused the Ogun State government for denying them access to the MKO Abiola International Stadium for the rally of its Presidential candidate.
The PDP said it had made the request in a letter to the state commissioner for Youths and Sports on January 3, 2023, ahead of the rally slated of January 19.
In the letter signed by the State Secretary, Sunday Solarin, the PDP recalled how an earlier request for the use of the stadium was not obliged by the state government.
The letter read in part: “It is pertinent to mention the use of the facility for the conduct of our party primary.
“Surprisingly, our humble request was kept to date which translated to tactical denial. While we will like to put this unwanted denial behind us, we wish vehemently emphasize that the use of the state assets should be to the benefit of the general citizenry irrespective of any leaning.
“We, therefore, once again formally write to seek the usage of this facility for the purpose, and on the date indicated above.”
In response to the party, the Ministry of Youths and Sports in a letter dated January 10, 2023, said the stadium could not be available for use.
According to the Director, Administration for Permanent Secretary, I.A KU Foriji said the stadium was undergoing a major renovation.
Letter read: “Further to your letter of 3rd January 2023, in respect to the above subject, I have the directive to inform you that the MKO Abiola International Stadium is undergoing a major renovation of the spectator’s seats and other important areas within the premises.
“As we are all aware that people of high profile in the society are expected to be in attendance and the facility is not yet in good condition to accommodate events until it is completed and ready for use.
“in this regard, the ministry would not be able to access to your request for the above stated reason”.
The letter comes amid a report that the same stadium hosted a football match in the Iseya Cup Competition on Sunday.